What are dentures used for?

Dentures are custom-made dental appliances used to replace one or more missing teeth. They help restore your ability to chew and speak while improving the appearance of your smile. Depending on your needs, dentures may replace a few missing teeth or an entire arch of teeth.

At Stellar Dental, we provide custom dentures designed to restore the appearance and function of your smile after tooth loss. Whether you are missing a few teeth or a full arch, dentures can help improve your ability to eat, speak and smile with confidence. Our team will assess your individual needs and recommend the most suitable denture solution for your lifestyle and oral health.

What are dentures?

Dentures, or false teeth, are dental prosthetics that replace missing teeth. Dentures can replace missing teeth on both your lower and upper jaw. The gums keep them in position and consist of a plate to which the artificial teeth are attached.

What types of dentures are there?

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are temporary dentures that give you a natural-looking smile while your gums reform after tooth removal. The temporary denture is a placeholder until your gums heal and can support a new denture.

Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-coloured plastic base connected by a metal framework that keeps them in place in the mouth. They can be used when one or more teeth remain in the jaw. Partial dentures also prevent the remaining teeth from changing their position, making them ideal for patients who still have some of their natural teeth.

Full Dentures

A full denture, commonly called a complete denture, occupies the entire mouth instead of simply a portion. It is removable and can be worn by someone who has lost their teeth. It can also be used to replace missing teeth.

Are dentures the right option for me?

Dentures may be suitable if you have lost several teeth or all of your teeth and would like to restore your smile and everyday function. The most appropriate option depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth, the health of your gums and jawbone, and your personal preferences. During your consultation, your dentist will assess your oral health and discuss whether full dentures, partial dentures or another tooth replacement option is most appropriate for your needs.

What is the procedure like for dentures?

Your gums must be prepped before you start wearing dentures. If you need teeth removed, you must wait a few months before moving on to the next stage, as your gums must heal.

After the healing period, our dentists will take measurements of your jaw and the shape of your mouth and examine how you open and close your mouth. Then, we will use these measurements to create a set of dentures that will restore the function and look of your smile.

It may take some time for your cheeks and tongue to adjust to your new dentures as they learn to hold them in place — this is entirely normal. It is also normal to experience an increase in saliva, initial soreness, and irritability. You should schedule a follow-up appointment if you have continued pain or discomfort or experience a clicking sound when you speak.

Regular follow-up appointments are an important part of denture treatment. As your mouth changes over time, your dentures may require adjustments or relining to maintain a comfortable fit and continue functioning properly.

What are the benefits of dentures?

Once you become comfortable with your dentures, you will notice a positive difference in your facial appearance and oral functioning. Some benefits include:

  • A more natural and confident appearance. Dentures can even change the overall appearance of your face. Your face may appear sunken in if you have missing teeth. Having dentures will make your face appear fuller and younger.
  • There are no longer any limitations on what you can eat. You now can eat all the foods you could before you lost your teeth if you have dentures. To keep your dentures in good condition, your dentist might suggest certain items to eat in moderation.
  • Dentures slow down the rate of oral bone decay.
  • Traditional dentures can be removed for proper cleaning.

How much do dentures cost?

The cost of your dentures will depend on many factors, mainly the type of dentures you choose and the number of teeth required to be replaced. Before we begin, we can provide an estimate of your denture costs.

At our Cape Town and Brackenfell dental clinic, we understand how a bright, full smile can impact your life. We provide an anxiety-free denture procedure with a kind, encouraging team. We put your comfort first, so we will guide you every step of the way. Located conveniently as a dentist in Brackenfell, Cape Town, we are committed to improving your dental health in a friendly and secure setting. The overall cost may also depend on whether additional treatment, such as tooth extractions or adjustments before fitting your dentures, is required.

Let us help you regain your smile and confidence. Reach out to us today for dentures at Stellar Dental and take the first step towards a renewed smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to get dentures?

The treatment timeline varies depending on your individual needs. If teeth need to be removed first, your gums may need time to heal before your permanent dentures are fitted.

2. Will dentures feel uncomfortable at first?

Yes. It is normal to experience mild soreness, increased saliva production and some difficulty speaking or eating while you adjust to your new dentures. These symptoms usually improve with time.

3. Can I eat normally with dentures?

Most people can return to eating a wide variety of foods once they have adjusted to their dentures. Your dentist may recommend starting with softer foods while you become accustomed to wearing them.

4. How should I clean my dentures?

Dentures should be cleaned daily using a denture brush and an appropriate denture cleanser. They should also be removed regularly to allow your gums to rest and to maintain good oral hygiene.

5. How long do dentures last?

Dentures can last for many years, but they may eventually need to be adjusted, relined or replaced as your mouth naturally changes over time.

6. Do I still need dental check-ups if I wear dentures?

Yes. Regular dental examinations remain important so your dentist can assess the health of your gums, check the fit of your dentures and screen for other oral health concerns.